Stitches from blepharoplasty extend beyond corner of eyes (Photo)

Question

I've looked at the post-op stitches of other patients who've had lower blepharoplasty and it seems that most of the stitches begin and end within the length of the eye. Mine extends past the outer corners quite substantially. Is there a reason for this? Will this leave obvious scarring? What can I do to fade the scars?

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

This is the norm for lower lid surgery when we excise skin.  By carrying the incision out in a normal crease we are able to keep the skin from bunching up in this area.  It usually heals well with no visible scar.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The incision is carried laterally to prevent the skin from bunching up.  That is not the real problem here.  What your photos show is that your surgery is causing an ectropion of the lower eyelid.  That means the lower eyelid margin is not laying against the cornea.  Normally eyelids work like windshield wipers.  These eyelids can't function this way.  This can cause dry eye symptoms and corneal irritation.  Time may help soften this issue but not always.  If the issue persists beyond 6 months, it might benefit from revisional work.  For now I would follow the directions of your surgeon and allow the eyelids to heal.

Jane M. Rowley, MD · Answer

That is normal positioning for eyelid scars. They should heal nicely and be very, very difficult to detect.  Jane

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing you question and photo. Incisions are often made beyond the lateral aspect of the eyelid. This helps tighten the skin and often leavers smoother result at the corners of the eye. Fortunately, scars on the eyelid unusually heal exceptionally well. I hope you find this helpful.Good luck,

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

It is often necessary to extend incision thereby stitches beyond eyelid margin. The scar heals nicely and blends into creases on its own. Any extra care is not required.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as the standard! Really not sure what your issue is. Best to see your chosen surgeon to discuss>>>>>

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Crynge,It is very common for the stitches to extend beyond the corner of the eye.  This allows the skin to be redraped to better remove the excess skin.  Otherwise the skin would bunch on the outer corner of the eye.  The part that extends beyond the eye is placed into a natural crease which usually heals very well.  I'd recommend you follow up with your surgeon for any concerns about your healing.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

TOTALLY normal. It allows adequate skin redraping without any pleats. These scar heal amazingly well in the vast majority of cases. Your surgeon will be able to advise you about options for scar treatment if needed.

Stitches from blepharoplasty extend beyond corner of eyes (Photo)

Answers (8)

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